For a few seconds yesterday, pomp and ceremony had a human face.

Governor Lord Waddington said farewell to Bermuda with an outpouring of warm words...and a croak in the throat.

"So many memories, God bless you all,'' he said, raw emotion momentarily interrupting proceedings.

Looking on were 200 camera-clicking visitors and Bermudians who joined VIPs and invited guests for a Cabinet Building ceremony which took place under overcast skies.

To many of the English holidaymakers, the pageantry provided a welcome break from UK election fever -- and constant Irish Republican Army bomb scares.

"It's great to get away from all that. That's all you get on the TV news in Britain,'' said Margaret Sharkey, who was with a group from the cruise ship Dreamward , including her husband, John.

"I love all the pageantry,'' said Helen Smith, who hails from Cambridge.

As she spoke the Bermuda Regiment Band marched to a pounding beat into the Cabinet Building grounds before Lord and Lady Waddington arrived by landau.

The crowd heard Lord Waddington, clad in full regalia, describe his time in Bermuda as a "fascinating, rewarding and fulfilling experience''.

He and Lady Waddington -- who last night left for London -- had forged many memorable friendships, he said.

"We both think we are lucky to have had the opportunity to live in one of the most lovely places in the world.

"I think we are going to go back as more balanced and, dare I say it, more useful people.'' His plumed hat fluttering in the breeze, Lord Waddington paid tribute to Bermuda's new Premier Pamela Gordon, who stood at his side.

"It was a great honour to swear you in as the first woman Premier of Bermuda,'' he said. "I wish you well for the future in exercising your heavy responsibilities.'' Lord Waddington also doffed his hat to two former Premiers in the crowd -- David Saul and Sir John Swan.

He said Bermuda were indebted to them for their hard work and dedication, adding: "Bermuda can be proud of its ancient Parliament and those who serve in the Senate and the House of Assembly.'' Lord Waddington also praised the Civil Service and the Chief Justice for their roles in administering Bermuda.

He then turned to the Police, lightly touching on the controversy over the appointment of two Britons to fill the posts of Commissioner and Deputy Commission -- Colin Coxall and Michael Mylod.

It was a row which embroiled Government House as the Opposition Progressive Labour Party petitioned for Bermudians to fill the posts.

Yesterday, however, was not the occasion to dwelling on such matters.

Said Lord Waddington: "I thank all ranks in the Police for their dedicated service. Some of the decisions have attracted controversy...but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

Governor departs "I congratulate Mr. Coxall and his senior officers for their fine leadership.'' Lord Waddington went on to thank Bermuda's army of volunteers who had worked with his wife.

Earlier, Ms Gordon, wearing a mustard-coloured dress suit, applauded Lord Waddington for his "open door'' policy at Government House.

"Making Government House the people's house required a deft touch and a dash of courage. Few occupants of Government House have endeared themselves so much to the people of Bermuda.'' Ms Gordon thanked Lady Waddington for her support of the arts and community organisations.

After the speeches, Lord Waddington, accompanied by Lady Waddington and their daughter, Victoria, went on a walkabout.

As he chatted to well-wishers, Lord Waddington eschewed formality...taking off his plumed hat.

It was fitting way for the outgoing occupant of "the people's house'' to spend his last day as Bermuda's Governor.